Bidspirit auction | Antique Elgin National Watch Co

Antique Elgin National Watch Co G M Wheeler 18 Size Key Wind Pocket Watch - An antique manual key-wind and key-set pocket watch produced by the Elgin National Watch Co. This model features a G. M. Wheeler grade movement, identified as Grade 57, Model 1. The full-plate movement is engraved with G. M. Wheeler, Elgin, Ill., and Pat. Pinion, and bears the serial number 242798, which dates the manufacture to approximately 1873. The watch is housed in an 18 size Silveroid case, which is a proprietary nickel-copper-zinc alloy. The case interior is stamped with SILVEROID within a hexagonal border and bears the serial number 3182993. The white porcelain enamel dial features black Roman numeral hour markers, a rail-track minute scale, and a sunken sub-seconds dial at the 6 o'clock position. The dial is signed ELGIN NATL WATCH CO. This lot includes one winding and setting key marked PATENTED. Per user information, the watch runs with key. Case size: 55mm. The watch displays significant condition issues consistent with age and use. The porcelain enamel dial has major damage, including multiple large chips, loss of enamel, and extensive radial spider cracks concentrated between the 5 and 7 o'clock positions. The thick glass crystal is heavily chipped and damaged at the 6 o'clock edge, corresponding with the dial damage. The Silveroid case shows significant surface wear, numerous scratches, and areas of tarnishing, with visible dents on the rear cover. The movement shows signs of surface oxidation and accumulated grime; while reported as running, it has not been professionally timed and requires servicing.